Bringing Joy of Angling to More Youth

Hundreds of students across the province are learning how to sportfish, to help them get outdoors and enjoy the sport with family and friends.

The Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture's Inland Fisheries Division has helped teach volunteers from the Hants West Wildlife Association and the South Shore Bassmasters how to deliver the Learn to Fish (L2F) program to reach more classrooms. It was delivered to more than 40 classrooms across the province this year, which means another 1,300 youth will know the ins and outs of beginner sportfishing.

"Sportfishing is a great way to get out and enjoy our lakes and rivers in a safe and serene family setting," said Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister Sterling Belliveau. "I'm pleased to see community groups collaborate with us to help teach young people how to appreciate such wonderful resources, making life better for families in every region."

The Learn to Fish Program (L2F) started in 2006 to help get kids between the ages of 8 and 12 to try sportfishing. The volunteers are trained to teach kids about safe fishing practices, how to assemble a rod and reel, and how to identify their catch. The interactive and educational program has a classroom and outdoors component. With the help of the volunteer instructors, the L2F program was delivered to a number of additional communities, such as Yarmouth, Digby, Queens and Hants counties.

For more information about sportfishing in Nova Scotia and the L2F program, go to www.gov.ns.ca/fish/sportfishing .